ACLU Vows to Sue Over Alabama Legislation Designed to Close Abortion Clinics

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — After an Alabama House committee passed a bill that would shutter abortion clinics within 2,000 feet of a public school, the American Civil Liberties Union committed to challenging the legislation if it becomes law.

The legislation passed by the Health and Human Services Committee, SB 205, would force two abortion clinics in the state to close.

“We all agree that protecting our children is a top priority, but this measure isn’t about protecting Alabama’s children. It’s about making a sure a woman who has decided to have an abortion can’t get one,” said Susan Watson, executive director of the ACLU of Alabama. “Make no mistake about it: If the legislature passes this bill and the governor signs it, the ACLU will challenge the law in court.”

It would be fourth lawsuit in the last three years challenging abortion restrictions in Alabama.

“This bill is an attack on the health and well-being of Alabama women. The government and politicians should not intrude on these personal, private family decisions. If enacted, this outrageous law will only result in yet another costly lawsuit, which is the last thing our state needs,” Watson said.

In recent years, courts have blocked three attempts to cut off access to reproductive health care in Alabama. Last month, a federal court permanently blocked a law that similarly would have forced abortion clinics to close.

The ACLU is committed to defending women’s health and constitutionally protected right to safe, legal abortion services in Alabama.